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Ross Buck, Professor of Communication Sciences at Uconn: Photo by Kierstin WesolouskiThe phrase "emotional intelligence" describes a controversial theory that feelings and empathy for others are skills that can be taught and learned.

The original theory suggests four main components of "EI" Managing, Using, Understanding and Perceiving Emotions. Researchers are looking at how children do things like picking up on social cues, or facial expressions and how well they keep their own emotions and desires under control.

Today, where we live, a conversation about Emotional Intelligence with people who are studying what it means for development and how it's being used in school curriculums. We'll also talk with a critic, who wonders if it's really a skill that can be learned.

You can join the conversation. Does intelligence extend beyond "IQ" to a kind of "EQ?" Add your suggestions, questions and comments below.

*This Where We Live episode was produced by Lauren House, originally aired on 8/27/08